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Backpackers: The next generation?
Age-related backpacking research
While backpackers are generally assumed to be young, there have been no
studies that indicate that age is a restricting factor. Pearce’s (1990) social
definition specifically precludes age as a criterion; additional studies indicate
that nationality is more of a natural definitional boundary amongst backpackers
than is age (Loker-Murphy & Pearce, 1995; Ross, 1992, 1997; Ryan & Mohsin,
2001).
Several scholars contend that a new variety of backpackers is emerging, people
who prefer budget travel but who are now constrained by relatively short
holidays (Scheyvens, 2006; Thyne et al., 2004). Scheyvens’ (2006, p. 78) research
indicates that backpackers using Samoa’s inexpensive fales (thatched beach huts)
are “people of all ages who are seeking a reasonably priced, adventuresome and
‘less tourist’ holiday option during their two or three week vacation”. A study of
Canadian hostels posits that “the older, more affluent contemporary backpacker
may ensure both growth and revitalization for those hostels willing to
accommodate the changing needs of this new class of customers” (Hecht &
Martin, 2006, p. 70).
One organisation doing so appears to be the YHA. Four separate studies
focussing on demographics, lifestyle segmentation, needs and preferences of
backpackers have isolated findings particular to their older guests (Cave et al.,
2007; Hyde et al., 2008; Nash, Thyne, & Davies, 2006; Thyne et al., 2004). YHA
has a relatively high percentage of older guests, perhaps because of life
memberships acquired at younger ages. In New Zealand, for instance, Hyde et
al. (2008) found that almost half of YHA members staying as guests at the
hostels were more than 36 years of age. A study of the Scotland YHA argues that
“instead of segmenting this market on their demographics, it is more useful to
focus on lifestyle segmentation” (Thyne et al., 2004, p. 98). Hecht and Martin
(2006) agree, stating that backpacking is less about chronological age and more
about travel style choices. Uriely et al. (2002, p. 536), having determined that
backpacking is a form of tourism, suggest that the inherent heterogeneity of
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